Mammoth Mountain

Yes, Mammoth is the nearest “true big mountain” to Los Angeles. But snow-loving Californians migrate to this windswept and view-blessed knob in the eastern Sierra for reasons beyond the obvious. Mammoth’s natural terrain variety (no. 4) is among North America’s best, delivering quality and abundance across the spectrum: broad beginner boulevards, corduroy fall-line carvers, piney glades, radical steeps. Its 3,500-plus scenic and open acres are sunkissed yet get hammered with more than 33 feet of mostly dry high-altitude snow annually. Lifts (no. 7) are swift and well laid out. Off-slope, the Village at Mammoth has matured into the amenity the diffuse Town of Mammoth Lakes needs. “The biggest weakness at Mammoth” according to one reader: “You can’t ski between Fourth of July and Halloween.” —S.R.

Must Do » Sample the best of Mammoth Brewing Company’s 17 years of awardwinning craft creations in its tasting room.

Yes, golfing. In the winter. Frosty’s has a full indoor mini-golf course, open year round to keep your swing, or at least your put, in shape during those winter months. While we’re a bit reticent to promote going indoors in such a beautiful outdoor area, we understand that sometimes you just want to get out of the cold a little bit and who doesn’t love put-putting through a clown’s mouth or over the drawbridge of a castle? This is sure to be a kid pleaser and offers a respite from the elements of those overly stormy or blustery days in Mammoth.

See the majestic scenery that surrounds Mammoth from the comfort of a luxurious, heated snowcat on one of Mammoth Mountain’s snow cat tours. Day tours trek into the backcountry for stunning views of the Minarets and other high alpine peaks that surround Mammoth Lakes. At night take a luxurious ride to Parallax on Mammoth Mountain for a truly unique, gourmet dining experience. All tours depart from the Main lodge. Kids are welcome and cameras encouraged on all tours. Mammoth also offers custom tours for groups.